Addison Disease

Definition

Addison disease is a disorder of the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands sit on top of the kidneys and make important hormones. With Addison disease, the adrenal glands do not make enough of the hormones. The hormone cortisol is always affected but aldosterone may be low as well. Hormones affect systems throughout the body including blood pressure, metabolism, and the immune system. Addison disease may be:

Primary addison disease—adrenal gland tissue can not make hormones

Secondary addison disease—other hormones that tell adrenal glands what to do are missing or low

A severe complication of Addison's disease is the Addisonian or
adrenal crisis. This is a life threatening crisis.

Bleeding within the adrenal glands—may happen because of anticoagulant medications or
shock

Surgical removal of glands

Genetic factors or birth defects that make it difficult for the adrenal glands to work properly

Certain medications

Secondary addison disease can be caused damage to the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland sends hormones that control the adrenal gland. If the pituitary gland is damaged it can not do its job well. Adrenal insufficiency may also occur after long term corticosteroids are stopped.

Treatment

Addison disease can not be cured but can be managed with medication. These medications replace the missing hormones to decrease symptoms. They can also help prevent an adrenal crisis. An adrenal crisis will need immediate medical attention to try to balance the hormones again.

Regular blood tests are needed to monitor your response to medication. Wear a medical alert bracelet that states adrenal insufficiency or addison disease. This will let others know of your condition if you are unable to communicate.

Cortisol helps the body deal with stress. Those with addison disease need to take extra care during times of stress. Extra treatment may be needed during physical stress or recovery such as:

Surgery

Pregnancy

Severe illnesses or injuries

Prevention

There are no current guidelines to prevent addison disease.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.